The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the government to ensure the smooth supply of LPG and other petroleum products, citing concerns over shortages in the Kathmandu Valley.

The commission said it drew attention to the issue after reports of an LPG shortage in the Valley in recent days following tensions in West Asia.

It urged the government to take all necessary measures to facilitate the distribution of petroleum products, take action against those involved in creating artificial shortages, regulate unnecessary stockpiling, and ensure the smooth supply of essential goods to protect consumer rights.

Following the reports of the shortage of petroleum products and essentials, the commission conducted monitoring at the Nepal Oil Corporation, the Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection, the Food Management and Trading Company Limited and several gas depots.

According to a statement issued by the commission, Nepal remains largely dependent on imports for petroleum products, and the import of required raw materials has continued as usual. However, some disruption in gas supply occurred due to transportation management issues of a few companies.

It said widespread media reports about problems in overall gas supply management have encouraged consumers to store more than required, while some traders have attempted to create artificial shortages.

The commission said such practices undermine consumer rights guaranteed under Article 44 of the Constitution, the Consumer Protection Act 2075, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights 1966, to which Nepal is a party.